KURTULUŞ, BETÜL1; ÜÇER, DENIZ2; BAKIRER, ÖMÜR3; ELIAS-OZKAN, SOOFIA TAHIRA4

1) Research Assistant, METU, Architecture, vacide@metu.edu.tr

2) Research Assistant, METU, Architecture, deucer@metu.edu.tr

3) Prof. Dr., METU, Architecture, bakirer@metu.edu.tr

4) Prof. Dr., METU, Architecture, soofia@arch.metu.edu.tr

Masonry construction had unique geometric properties during different time periods in its long history. The reasons behind these preferences can be associated with the architecture of the periods as well as the improvement level of components. From this perspective, the earliest known masonry samples are shaped by basic sheltering needs as well as appropriate technologies, while examples from some periods indicate the high level of skills that is ensured by highly developed tools of their period.

This study starts with analyzing geometric characteristics of masonry construction and the dynamics behind these forms, as well as design and assembly methodologies. Thus, the timeline of masonry in terms of geometric characteristics is detected and critical dates of changes are noted as the first step. Then the two richest periods in terms of geometrical form variations and complexity are delineated and analyzed in detail. The characteristics of these two periods, that will be referred to as the promotion and re-formation periods. In this paper are compared in terms of design and assembly. Findings indicate that, although the geometric complexity can be accepted as a common aspect to a degree, their main form characteristics, design and assembly methods totally differ from each other during the two periods.

Keywords: masonry; geometry; complexity; design; assembly